Ralphy, I consider myself a whisk(e)y anorak for the past 15 years or so. I'm in my 40's and have loved your content since I first started watching your channel 5-6 years ago. But I have a bottle of 18 y/o chivas in my collection as homage to my grandfather. He used to drink Chivas12 as his "specialty drink" that he would only bring out on special occasions.. and would squirrel it away otherwise. He passed in 2006, and I've had a bottle of 18y/o to commemorate him on his Birthday, and the day he passed ever since. I only wish I could have had a dram with him. There are many reasons whiskey drinkers have blends in their collection, and this is but one of them. Thanks for reviewing this special drink (to me)on your channel, even though it's not an integrity malt. :)
Important point is that the price of the blends have been creeping up for many years and nowadays it’s close to or even higher then the malts price tag. Chivas 15 where I am costs more then Ardbeg 10 and Arran 10, both 46%, natural color and unchillfiltered cracking malts which are simply exploding with flavor. Chivas 18 is only a bit cheaper than Glenlivet 18. No way I would go for the blends in the foreseeable future
Look at the prices of some of the Johnnie Walker blends, especially like the Blue. Insane! You could acquire several superb bottles of single malts for the price of a Blue. Dewars has some very pricey blends now as well. Especially the newer line being sold in half size bottles to try and make the purchase prices more palatable.
I love when Ralfy was shocked by Red Label J.Walker from the 1990 once, when doing extras. That's the moment to behold. Ralfy looks reserved here, holding back his enthusiasm
my experience with this one: Some raisiny sweetness in aroma that was enjoyable. It got better as I let the drink stand for some time; I could sense a weak smokiness alongside the sweet as well. I liked that while it clearly showed its Chivas lineage, it was not unidimensional in its aroma. It was very smooth to drink and showed the maturity of its contents - 18 year old whisky. However, I did not pick any particularly tasty notes in the mouth. I almost felt disappointed after that lovely nose.
There are some whiskies being sold today as single malt which would previously been considered blend filler. You might expect that the lack of demand for blends would lead to an increase in quality but its the opposite because anything that can pass as single malt is being sold as such.
Idk about demand for blends. Seems to me like the un informed masses keep buying their blends and don’t care about the sad quality but I really don’t know the sale numbers
@@Morne555 I'm aware of that but thanks. What I'm saying is Tamnavulin was built to produce malt whisky to fill Whyte & Mackay blends and obviously provide some depth of flavour that young cheap grain whisky can't give. It was never supposed to see light of day as a single malt in its own right (and in my view doesn't deserve to) but yet you can now buy it in Tesco at premium prices.
@@wt8676 ahh, sorry i misunderstood what you where trying to say. I havent tried their sherry cask, that seems a bit pricey (considering what else is out there) but the standard bottle often sells for £22 which isnt that bad at that price, from what i remember it was ok, tasted far worse at that price if i have to be honnest.
I'm happy to be able to say that back in July 2019, the wife & I were able to visit the Strathisla distillery, and chose the Regal Cellar Tasting tour. What a great experience to smell & taste the 12, 18, 25 yo as well as the Ultis & one other I cannot remember, and all at cask strength, right from the cask. And Wow! What a difference that made in our experience. It's unfortunate Diagio doesn't see the value in bottling some of these blends at a higher, respectable, proof. But I still keep an odd bottle of the 18 in my stock. Thanks Ralfy!
Thank you Ralfy! I was recently given an unopened Chivas 12 that is from the mid 80’s. I’m sure it’s different than today’s! I have a 1/4 left in a 1964 bottling of J&B. We tried it this weekend and it tasted rather delightful! So different than today’s version! Unfortunately the same is true with Single Malts too! Especially with “hot” brands such as Macallan!! What a difference 15 years makes! BTW!!! I just bought a 2021 bottle of GlenDronach 15 Revival! No longer NCF!!!! Off the box and bottle! GD gave me a bunch of lip service as to why. “Clarity and consistency” they said. The mouthfeel and taste is different from 2019! Thought you would find this disappointing but interesting! Health and continued success! Neal Bruce (The States)
@@thewhiskybothy Please do. I have a feeling that this distillery will be trending downward soon. Not that it’s bad quality but they just can not replicate the past. Those casks must have been exceptional. As example, the older Revivals will have Cult status as the years progress and there are less of them around. Glad I stashed 3 of them and two 18s. To think I used to buy them at @$80-90! I’m not even buying the new one. I for one think it’s disingenuous to still call it The Revival, same label, and it’s now matured differently and is now not even un chill filtered. Yeesh!
@@SaltyCuban Rachel Barrie was asked on this weeks Whiskycast podcast about the Gdro chill filtration situation and said nothing had changed with the whisky, I will wait until I hear it coming in a live interview to try and interpret what she meant.
@@benmarnoch4111 I’m pretty sure I’ve seen the non chill filtration statement missing from the new tube, and of course the bottle. Idk what to make if that. I do find it odd that Dronach would do that in these times. They have basically become a celebrity among true malt aficionados rather than the party and blends crowd. I’d be a bad move to change the filtration. Bad enough that they changed the recipe to the 15. Then again they probably did it knowing they couldn’t replicate the old one and figured. Instead of looking like we failed at reproducing it, let’s change the recipe and say it’s different because of that.
If the blended scotch was presented in cask strength versions then it might be a very interesting option to consider. Many American whiskeys are a blend of corn wheat and rye and when presented at cask or close to cask strength are excellent in terms of taste and nose
Blended scotch is often aged in tired overused barrels whereas most American whiskey uses new charred oak barrels. So I don't know that a cask strength blended scotch will give you the same desired effect. I'm all for trying it, but it might end up seeming relatively harsh. And I am a lover of cask strength American whiskey and scotch single malts.
He’s only reviewing it because it has an age statement. It’s his way of holding the industry accountable and honest. I’m sure he buys n/a statements. Now that he has this much clout, he only rewards those that deserve it in his eyes. And I agree.
Please concider reviewing the Dewar's 18. It is $57 US near me and looks intresting as I have had all of the malt distillery's listed on the bottle and early in my Scotch journey I enjoyed the 15yr expression. Thanks
This bottle is one of the most trending bottles that affordable for the price and the quality in Asia and Vietnam. Hard to get an 18y with the price this bottle availables in Asia at the moment and we really care about the price here thats why it gets widely. Thanks for the video.
Totally agree. Still remember when JW black used to be one of a kind,but now the flavor and texture it’s inconsistent. Btw Chivas 18 is one of my personal favorites blended scotch over JW ultimate 18, since JW platinum was taken out of the market. But for a single malt, Glenmorangie 18 it’s on its own a delightful and one of a kind malt.
I have recently finished off a bottle of blended Cadenhead 12 year old. 65% malt content. 46% natural colour. Non chill filtered. Enjoyed it so much I bought the 20 year old to be explored at a later date
The Chivas Regal 18 Blended Scotch is my preferred Blended Scotch and good for social drinking with those not accustomed to drinking Scotch. My personal favorite is Glenfiddich 18 Small Batch Reserve, it has the flavors I prefer in a Single Malt Scotch.
Blends from Compass Box are fantastic although a little pricey. I just think Chivas doesn't care about us Malt Mates. Their target is the masses and money. It's a shame though because I can get a sense of a decent whisky from the 12, but the chill filtration absolutely kills it. Cheers Ralfy🥃🍻
I've quite enjoyed Chivas 18 in the recent few years. Yes, it needs to sit a while in the glass but I've found there's a fair bit to explore in there. A great one to have at an evening with friends when you're not fully invested in just whisky, or as a warm up for more challenging ones.
Sorry, but you at are wrong. The survival or upsurge of single malt IS due to blended whisky. Sure, blended whisky needed single malt, but on it's own single malt probably wouldn't have survived. If the philosophy of the blenders wasn't to see single malts as their "spice rack", we could have faced the same type of concentration as we have seen in other spirits like Irish and American whisky. Well perhaps the "craft trend" would have revived it, but oh boy would we be on a completely different level. The point still is: A single malt aficionado shouldn't wrinkle their nose of blended whisky. Only wrinkle their nose of poor quality when they face it.
. . . unfortunately poor quality in conjunction with blended whisky are more noticable these days. It's all about the casks. I remember as a child that single malts were always more desirable than blends, always of better repute, always a better gift to receive. Problem was that malts were 'competition' to the blends, which offered bigger profits to distillers.
@@thewhiskybothy Hi Ralfy, While I greatly enjoy your whisky reviews and order your latest book I find your opinion on blended whisky somewhat unnuanced. The current status of the Scottish whisky industry and it's worldwide popularity came from the consistency (at least since the birth of blended whisky) of blended whisky compared to the variable quality of single malt and the huge investments in marketing. I do agree that the quality from blended whiskies has gone backwards anvariety
Just now tonight, trying a VERY small bottle of Johnny Walker Blue. Been wanting to try some blends. Tried Teachers first. Ugh. But JW Blue fares a bit better. A lot more peat than I expected but pretty decent to my novice palate.
Blended don’t mean less quality, means more variety of flavors combined to make a special sprit of its kind! Personally like them both, depending on the bottling and the distillery!
I know you're not into it, but I'd love to hear from any malt mates who enjoy a good whisky cocktail. I use Buffalo Trace in whisky sours and they are delicious. The most recent one I heard of was Ardbeg Wee Beastie mixed with root beer...yes, a single malt, but the price point is not high enough that'd I'd shy away from giving that cocktail a go. As Ralfy says, "A change is as good as a rest." Cheers! 🥃
I buy a blend when I just want a cheap whisky to warm my throat. I'm not looking for specifically flavors or to dwell on the glass. You could say I could get a beer or a wine, but I enjoy the taste of whisky so a blend does the trick. :)
One problem with blended Scotch is their pricing at the moment. In most cases they are on par if not more expensive than single malts. One example is Johnnie Walker 18 which is 100$ here in California, yet you can get Glenfiddich 18 at 43% for 82$. So why someone should bother with blended.
I agree with ralfy; I used to be a real fan of Teachers. Downhill it went along with other blended whisky. The quality of blended whisky isn't really there anymore; & I used to enjoy blended whisky. Very sad to see TBH.
Thanks for the Information. I always have a bottle of chivas Regal and Johnny Walker for guests that like Cola in their Whisky 🥃 ☺️. Im prefer a Single malt scotch. Have a nice one Ralfy
I don't quite get blends. If you're blending, why don't add some brandy and then vodka to it too? Then maybe a spoon of chicken soup? I am sure it's complex and delicious but just don't know what's the purpose of that drink at that point.
Just bought a Gift Pack [Chivas 18 + Crystal quasi-brandy glass + 7 Pre-mixed cocktails for lesser whiskies] for 45 quid and an Aultmore 18 for 78 quid. Lucky day.
I try to say this as politely as I can I have a lot of respect for you and I have learned a lot from you, but I feel that these reviews have become quite harsh if it is not about whiskey from small companies. one of the first i learned from you Ralfy is "please dont become a malt snob and enjoy whisky the way you like it" in your early videos. I do not want to sound rude...just my opinion cheers
Sometimes blends are a great alternative and a less serious option, when you don't want to focus too heavily on subtleties. Similarly, you cannot review a blend using the same criteria and benchmarks as a single malt!
I've picked up Dewars 12 at Costco for $40 a 1.75 liter just for those occasions. I do wish it was bottled at 46% or at least 43% but it's alright for those nights when something mild and easy is in order.
Many thanks for your vlogs. Having just discovered your channel, I've only seen a few so far but look forward to learning more about this extensive field. Have you trained in any way? You seem very skilled in being able to isolate components of the whisky's 'nose'. That's a very 'industrial'-looking magnifier you have there, by the way; very interesting!
I buy probably 60% single malts, 20% rums, 15% bourbons... but that remaining 5% is still blends because they are so much cheaper where I am compared to single malts.
In my unprofessional experience of tasting, the secret of blending is to find a good balance between harmony ans singularity. Some big brandys especially (and of course big blended scotch and rums) can be too dense at time (ok, some single malts too). It give aromas less definition and the result less personnality. Sometimes to a point of being only a perfect mixer : "getting perfect to drink but bad for tasting stimulation" type result. And column (varieties of columns) made whiskys are an interesting direction even with the snobby noises in the background about it. Love ralf anyway ;)
Probably a stupid question that's just occurred to me. Assuming that single malts are produced in relatively small quantities, how do the makers of blended whiskies obtain sufficient component volumes to maintain their much higher output, while still allowing the single-malt makers enough product to sell themselves?
Its perfectly ok to criticize a whisky. It doesn't make you a snob. Just because its a popular brand doesn't mean it's good, or worth the price tag. Too many people are offended if anything unfavorable is said about their favorite pour.
The bias against blended whiskys is such that I think a proper review can only be done in a blinded fashion. If a bottle of JWB or Chivas is sitting there, the negative review is written before the whisky is even tasted.
That is a good point. Seriously though when looking for a good blend. One would nowadays have to look outside the usual suspects if you will, to find the quality and taste you’re looking for. Compass box comes to mind as good one. Aside from that you have to use a fine toothed comb.
Maybe it would be interesting to do a review of Cadenheads blended/vatted whiskies. Yellow stripe for instance. You’re gonna get so much better quality for less money.
Ralfy, thanks for such an interesting review (as usual as a matter of fact). Could you say that Chivas 12 y.o. is the lesser of two evils as compared to 18y.o., say in terms of money or maybe between the two evils 'tis not worth choosing?
The blends I used to love are undrinkable these days. My last bottles of Chivas 12 and Johnnie Black were terrible. It's absolutely the overused casks. It's forced me to try Cognac and Port and great for me...im enjoying them. I started only buying Bourbon in single barrel versions as well. Bourbon casks are new at least but some companies do have better barrels...you can taste the difference with experience.
Hello Ralfy. I've had Ballantine 17 on my "to try" list for a while based on your previous review and reccomendation elsewhere. Do you expect that has also gone the way of things with blended whisky dropping in quality?
I never have gotten into blended scotch whiskey. I think it was because my perception when I got into whiskey, blended has always been perceived as inferior. If I'm going to add an ice cube to whiskey, it's going to be a high proof bourbon or rye and not a malt whiskey.
Thank you for the review Ralfy. My experience with Chivas Regal 18 year old was not very nice, I needed some Gaviscon immediately after. It was just too peppery, too spicy. But I found the 12 year old better. Just my personal opinion. Slainte!
Don't know how much this 18 Chivas retails for in other countries but here in Australia it is well over 100AUD. Was curious to watch your review and I have to say I agree. For the money being asked, it is way too hot and shallow. I would go as far as saying the 12 is more drinkable. On my whisky journey, I have found that Dewar's 18 is a full step up in quality and value compared to this.
Us whiskey connoisseurs make up an extremely small percentage of the market. Its bad business to carter to us alone. Chivas 18 is still a good whiskey thats smooth and easy. The Chivas of the late 60's mid 70's would blow your taste buds into orbit though. A true master class in whiskey during that era, It didnt become world famous for nothing.... but yes its glory days are over. its a mere shadow of its former self, but im glad the brand is still going.
Yep, most people start out with blended whisky and then they go from there becoming whiskey connoisseurs as they go on their Whisky journey. Also they are good for cocktails which alot of people do enjoy. This said i hope they get their act together and bring back the quality they used to have.
Hoo bloody ray..., I have been saying that for years that the average person tastes by the label. To prove this I bought the cheapest whisky I could buy and put it in a Glenfiddich 15 year old bottle..., and people were raving how fantastic it was..., NOBODY realised it was a better quality whisky..., not a single drinker and in this lot were quite a few people who considered themselves "quality" whisky drinkers. HA HA
It's just not the same thing. I drink whisky to taste the whisky. I agree with you and your sentiment very much. They are blending to create a product that meets expectations of scotch drinkers. If you're buying Chivas 18 you want to drink a good scotch. When I taste a single malt, the experience I'm looking for is the UN-expected malt moment. I think we have arrived at an epiphany of sorts. I started my journey simply asking WTF is going on with all these crazy and expensive bottles. Now I know. Whisky is whisky is whisky. Another day, another dram and how whisky fits into and enhances my life is a personal and unique experience. Cheers
It's not the same. For many reasons. Adding a few drops of water is a controlled action. While having ice melt is not controlled. Also as ice melts it releases more and more water which will make the whisky more and more diluted. And ice will also have a chilling effect on the drink. And you get less taste from a spirit that is cold than a drink that is room temprature. This said if you enjoy it with ice then drink it with ice. People are free to do as they please even if i personally think it makes the Whisky worse.
My pallette is horrible, unwilling to develop, so I go back and forth between single malts and blends. Have to agree though that consumerism ruined the quality of both, even in my very short-lived experience - less than 10 years. David Hayman, in his BBC show, surveyed the state of the Scotch whisky industry and examineed the threats to its world dominance. He became a blend convert. Just saying.
I've had plenty of single malts I've paid good money for that I had to choke down because I just couldn't drain pour them. Scotch isn't cheap in the States like Bourbon can be. Never disappointed with Chivas 18. Nothing hurts me more than dropping serious cash on Whiskey that is not much better than bottom shelf. There plenty of bottles in both Scotch and Bourbon that are way over hyped and over priced. I think you get what you pay for with this one.
i have tried this once and to be honest, it wasn't any better than the basic 12 yr, i do have a couple of blended whiskies in my cabinet but all are blended malts.
I enjoy Chivas Regal 18. I trust your nose and palate. I get some but not all of what you picked out of it. I was leaning more to sultanas than dates, but I get it. I also like many single malts. Where I live, I can get many Speyside, Highland, and Islay malts. Lowlands is limited pretty much to Auchentoshan, which I enjoy. But I don’t think I ever found Campbelltown malts here. I also like a few bourbons. It depends on my mood. My comfort with blends is that they are accessible, and when bars were open, I could find a decent sipping blend practically any bar or restaurant. I drink my whisky neat.
The Chivas Regal 18yr is a very enjoyable well balanced blended whiskey. I’ll never turn down a dram. However, it is overpriced. At it’s price point, there are a number of single malts that are superior.
Sorry ralfy but I disagree with your view on blended malts.. For example I enjoy whiskey like monkey shoulder much better than a lot of well known single malts.. It's all about your taste dosent mattered how they make it..
Monkey Shoulder is good because it's a Blended Malt not a Blended Scotch. No grain whisky involved. It's also bottled at higher strength. Same as Compass Box. I'm sure Ralfy is talking about Blended Scotches here, not Blended Malts.
All of us maltmates are a bit snobby ! I started with Jack Daniels and blended whiskys, but since I follow Ralfys reviews, I switched to single malts, and now I would never drink anything else ..... Thanks for the education Ralfy. 👍
Ralphy, I consider myself a whisk(e)y anorak for the past 15 years or so. I'm in my 40's and have loved your content since I first started watching your channel 5-6 years ago. But I have a bottle of 18 y/o chivas in my collection as homage to my grandfather. He used to drink Chivas12 as his "specialty drink" that he would only bring out on special occasions.. and would squirrel it away otherwise. He passed in 2006, and I've had a bottle of 18y/o to commemorate him on his Birthday, and the day he passed ever since. I only wish I could have had a dram with him.
There are many reasons whiskey drinkers have blends in their collection, and this is but one of them. Thanks for reviewing this special drink (to me)on your channel, even though it's not an integrity malt. :)
Yup, Chivas was my dads favorite whisky.
Important point is that the price of the blends have been creeping up for many years and nowadays it’s close to or even higher then the malts price tag. Chivas 15 where I am costs more then Ardbeg 10 and Arran 10, both 46%, natural color and unchillfiltered cracking malts which are simply exploding with flavor. Chivas 18 is only a bit cheaper than Glenlivet 18. No way I would go for the blends in the foreseeable future
. . . a good observation.
Look at the prices of some of the Johnnie Walker blends, especially like the Blue. Insane! You could acquire several superb bottles of single malts for the price of a Blue. Dewars has some very pricey blends now as well. Especially the newer line being sold in half size bottles to try and make the purchase prices more palatable.
instablaster...
@@orionjaziel7342 what is instant blaster?
I love when Ralfy was shocked by Red Label J.Walker from the 1990 once, when doing extras. That's the moment to behold. Ralfy looks reserved here, holding back his enthusiasm
my experience with this one: Some raisiny sweetness in aroma that was enjoyable. It got better as I let the drink stand for some time; I could sense a weak smokiness alongside the sweet as well. I liked that while it clearly showed its Chivas lineage, it was not unidimensional in its aroma. It was very smooth to drink and showed the maturity of its contents - 18 year old whisky. However, I did not pick any particularly tasty notes in the mouth. I almost felt disappointed after that lovely nose.
There are some whiskies being sold today as single malt which would previously been considered blend filler. You might expect that the lack of demand for blends would lead to an increase in quality but its the opposite because anything that can pass as single malt is being sold as such.
Tamnavulin was built as blend filler only, until Whytes realised they could stick a single malt label on it and sell it for £20-30 in supermarkets.
Idk about demand for blends. Seems to me like the un informed masses keep buying their blends and don’t care about the sad quality but I really don’t know the sale numbers
@@wt8676 by law single malt has to be made with 100% malted barley, you can pass off blended whisky as a single malt.
@@Morne555 I'm aware of that but thanks. What I'm saying is Tamnavulin was built to produce malt whisky to fill Whyte & Mackay blends and obviously provide some depth of flavour that young cheap grain whisky can't give. It was never supposed to see light of day as a single malt in its own right (and in my view doesn't deserve to) but yet you can now buy it in Tesco at premium prices.
@@wt8676 ahh, sorry i misunderstood what you where trying to say. I havent tried their sherry cask, that seems a bit pricey (considering what else is out there) but the standard bottle often sells for £22 which isnt that bad at that price, from what i remember it was ok, tasted far worse at that price if i have to be honnest.
I'm happy to be able to say that back in July 2019, the wife & I were able to visit the Strathisla distillery, and chose the Regal Cellar Tasting tour. What a great experience to smell & taste the 12, 18, 25 yo as well as the Ultis & one other I cannot remember, and all at cask strength, right from the cask. And Wow! What a difference that made in our experience. It's unfortunate Diagio doesn't see the value in bottling some of these blends at a higher, respectable, proof. But I still keep an odd bottle of the 18 in my stock. Thanks Ralfy!
Wow Ralfy! the generous malt Mark was a bit of a surprise!! I guess you didn’t want to hurt Chivas feelings or something 😅
Imagine the idiots Bottling 18yr old whiskey at 40%.what a waste
thanks for the review, very interesting as usual. Looking forward to the next extra review!
Thank you Ralfy! I was recently given an unopened Chivas 12 that is from the mid 80’s. I’m sure it’s different than today’s! I have a 1/4 left in a 1964 bottling of J&B. We tried it this weekend and it tasted rather delightful! So different than today’s version! Unfortunately the same is true with Single Malts too! Especially with “hot” brands such as Macallan!! What a difference 15 years makes!
BTW!!! I just bought a 2021 bottle of GlenDronach 15 Revival! No longer NCF!!!! Off the box and bottle! GD gave me a bunch of lip service as to why. “Clarity and consistency” they said. The mouthfeel and taste is different from 2019! Thought you would find this disappointing but interesting! Health and continued success! Neal Bruce (The States)
. . . I will comment on the GlenD situation soon.
@@thewhiskybothy Please do. I have a feeling that this distillery will be trending downward soon. Not that it’s bad quality but they just can not replicate the past. Those casks must have been exceptional. As example, the older Revivals will have Cult status as the years progress and there are less of them around. Glad I stashed 3 of them and two 18s. To think I used to buy them at @$80-90! I’m not even buying the new one. I for one think it’s disingenuous to still call it The Revival, same label, and it’s now matured differently and is now not even un chill filtered. Yeesh!
@@SaltyCuban Rachel Barrie was asked on this weeks Whiskycast podcast about the Gdro chill filtration situation and said nothing had changed with the whisky, I will wait until I hear it coming in a live interview to try and interpret what she meant.
@@benmarnoch4111 I’m pretty sure I’ve seen the non chill filtration statement missing from the new tube, and of course the bottle. Idk what to make if that. I do find it odd that Dronach would do that in these times. They have basically become a celebrity among true malt aficionados rather than the party and blends crowd. I’d be a bad move to change the filtration. Bad enough that they changed the recipe to the 15. Then again they probably did it knowing they couldn’t replicate the old one and figured. Instead of looking like we failed at reproducing it, let’s change the recipe and say it’s different because of that.
If the blended scotch was presented in cask strength versions then it might be a very interesting option to consider. Many American whiskeys are a blend of corn wheat and rye and when presented at cask or close to cask strength are excellent in terms of taste and nose
Blended scotch is often aged in tired overused barrels whereas most American whiskey uses new charred oak barrels. So I don't know that a cask strength blended scotch will give you the same desired effect. I'm all for trying it, but it might end up seeming relatively harsh. And I am a lover of cask strength American whiskey and scotch single malts.
Thanks for reviewing blended whisky. Blended whisky drinkers also have reference now. :)
He’s only reviewing it because it has an age statement. It’s his way of holding the industry accountable and honest. I’m sure he buys n/a statements. Now that he has this much clout, he only rewards those that deserve it in his eyes. And I agree.
Absolutely agree with Ralfy. Started of with blended scotch and after tasting single malts I’ve ever looked back.
Same here.
Same :D
Please concider reviewing the Dewar's 18. It is $57 US near me and looks intresting as I have had all of the malt distillery's listed on the bottle and early in my Scotch journey I enjoyed the 15yr expression. Thanks
I recently got a bottle of the dewars 18. paid about 50usd and its really good, especially for that kind of money.
Is the 18 that much better than the 15? I can get a 1.75 liter of the 15 for $65 and the 750 ml of the 18 is $70.
@@xiamengbaby they are different flavor profiles. the 18 has a good bit of sherried malt in it while the 15 is mostly bourbon maturation.
This bottle is one of the most trending bottles that affordable for the price and the quality in Asia and Vietnam. Hard to get an 18y with the price this bottle availables in Asia at the moment and we really care about the price here thats why it gets widely. Thanks for the video.
Totally agree. Still remember when JW black used to be one of a kind,but now the flavor and texture it’s inconsistent.
Btw Chivas 18 is one of my personal favorites blended scotch over JW ultimate 18, since JW platinum was taken out of the market.
But for a single malt, Glenmorangie 18 it’s on its own a delightful and one of a kind malt.
Try Black Bull blend
I have recently finished off a bottle of blended Cadenhead 12 year old. 65% malt content. 46% natural colour. Non chill filtered. Enjoyed it so much I bought the 20 year old to be explored at a later date
Had this one a few times, i liked it, real easy to drink. One of my favorite blend whiskies, along with the JW Green label.
JW green is a blended malt, not a blended whisky with grain.
@@bobsatek Yeah i know, i also like it that it show what whiskies are in it/
I have to try it with water because I've had it a few times and I found it predominantly woody. It lacks maltiness.
I like when Ralfy talk about more accessible stuff, even to trash it.
Grettings from Brasil, Malty Mate. Totally agree with your excelent reviews. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
The Chivas Regal 18 Blended Scotch is my preferred Blended Scotch and good for social drinking with those not accustomed to drinking Scotch. My personal favorite is Glenfiddich 18 Small Batch Reserve, it has the flavors I prefer in a Single Malt Scotch.
Blends from Compass Box are fantastic although a little pricey. I just think Chivas doesn't care about us Malt Mates. Their target is the masses and money. It's a shame though because I can get a sense of a decent whisky from the 12, but the chill filtration absolutely kills it. Cheers Ralfy🥃🍻
Yep, but blends like Compass Box are not intended for mass markets.
I love Compass Box's style...they even encourage using their blends in cocktails. Cheers! 🥃
Love your analysis !! Keep up the great work …
I've quite enjoyed Chivas 18 in the recent few years. Yes, it needs to sit a while in the glass but I've found there's a fair bit to explore in there. A great one to have at an evening with friends when you're not fully invested in just whisky, or as a warm up for more challenging ones.
Sorry, but you at are wrong. The survival or upsurge of single malt IS due to blended whisky. Sure, blended whisky needed single malt, but on it's own single malt probably wouldn't have survived. If the philosophy of the blenders wasn't to see single malts as their "spice rack", we could have faced the same type of concentration as we have seen in other spirits like Irish and American whisky. Well perhaps the "craft trend" would have revived it, but oh boy would we be on a completely different level.
The point still is: A single malt aficionado shouldn't wrinkle their nose of blended whisky. Only wrinkle their nose of poor quality when they face it.
. . . unfortunately poor quality in conjunction with blended whisky are more noticable these days. It's all about the casks. I remember as a child that single malts were always more desirable than blends, always of better repute, always a better gift to receive. Problem was that malts were 'competition' to the blends, which offered bigger profits to distillers.
@@thewhiskybothy
Hi Ralfy,
While I greatly enjoy your whisky reviews and order your latest book I find your opinion on blended whisky somewhat unnuanced. The current status of the Scottish whisky industry and it's worldwide popularity came from the consistency (at least since the birth of blended whisky) of blended whisky compared to the variable quality of single malt and the huge investments in marketing.
I do agree that the quality from blended whiskies has gone backwards anvariety
Just now tonight, trying a VERY small bottle of Johnny Walker Blue. Been wanting to try some blends. Tried Teachers first. Ugh. But JW Blue fares a bit better. A lot more peat than I expected but pretty decent to my novice palate.
The Chivas 12 has been my go to for a long time. Tried single malts and always come back. Just my preference so far.
Its a decent enough glugger with ice for 20-22 quid. I stopped buying Grouse for Chivas 12.
Blended don’t mean less quality, means more variety of flavors combined to make a special sprit of its kind!
Personally like them both, depending on the bottling and the distillery!
Great review as always! Just ordered your books, can’t wait to read them whilst enjoying a beautiful dram.
. . . thanks for buying my books !
I'm glad you gave Antiquary a mention its been the blend that I always have a bottle of on the shelf. The 12 yo one of the better blends out there.
I know you're not into it, but I'd love to hear from any malt mates who enjoy a good whisky cocktail. I use Buffalo Trace in whisky sours and they are delicious. The most recent one I heard of was Ardbeg Wee Beastie mixed with root beer...yes, a single malt, but the price point is not high enough that'd I'd shy away from giving that cocktail a go. As Ralfy says, "A change is as good as a rest." Cheers! 🥃
I buy a blend when I just want a cheap whisky to warm my throat. I'm not looking for specifically flavors or to dwell on the glass. You could say I could get a beer or a wine, but I enjoy the taste of whisky so a blend does the trick. :)
One problem with blended Scotch is their pricing at the moment. In most cases they are on par if not more expensive than single malts. One example is Johnnie Walker 18 which is 100$ here in California, yet you can get Glenfiddich 18 at 43% for 82$. So why someone should bother with blended.
I agree with ralfy; I used to be a real fan of Teachers. Downhill it went along with other blended whisky.
The quality of blended whisky isn't really there anymore; & I used to enjoy blended whisky. Very sad to see TBH.
Thanks for the Information.
I always have a bottle of chivas Regal and Johnny Walker for guests that like Cola in their Whisky 🥃 ☺️.
Im prefer a Single malt scotch.
Have a nice one Ralfy
I don't quite get blends. If you're blending, why don't add some brandy and then vodka to it too? Then maybe a spoon of chicken soup? I am sure it's complex and delicious but just don't know what's the purpose of that drink at that point.
Thanks again Ralfy, “Great job” as my American gym instructor says :-) oh ! And , “your awesome” :-)
Just bought a Gift Pack [Chivas 18 + Crystal quasi-brandy glass + 7 Pre-mixed cocktails for lesser whiskies] for 45 quid and an Aultmore 18 for 78 quid. Lucky day.
Hello Ralfy, I’m between Chivas regal 18 and glenfiddich 15 solera. Which would you recommend?
Thank you Ralfy, 100% agreed
I have this one, bought it in a duty free many years ago. I found it too sweet for my palate.
As an Embalmer it's good to have a spare Bung ....you never know, just my opinion .... cheers john
I try to say this as politely as I can
I have a lot of respect for you and I have learned a lot from you,
but I feel that these reviews have become quite harsh if it is not about whiskey from small companies.
one of the first i learned from you Ralfy is "please dont become a malt snob and enjoy whisky the way you like it"
in your early videos.
I do not want to sound rude...just my opinion
cheers
Hey ralfy, what do you thinkof the Chivas 13 extra line? I was suprised how much i enjoyed it.
Sometimes blends are a great alternative and a less serious option, when you don't want to focus too heavily on subtleties. Similarly, you cannot review a blend using the same criteria and benchmarks as a single malt!
I've picked up Dewars 12 at Costco for $40 a 1.75 liter just for those occasions. I do wish it was bottled at 46% or at least 43% but it's alright for those nights when something mild and easy is in order.
perfecyt timing ;]
i was thinking of buying yjis
I had this with basic 12 and Chivas extra side to side at a bar. I prefered the basic 12 by serious margin over the other two.
Many thanks for your vlogs. Having just discovered your channel, I've only seen a few so far but look forward to learning more about this extensive field. Have you trained in any way? You seem very skilled in being able to isolate components of the whisky's 'nose'. That's a very 'industrial'-looking magnifier you have there, by the way; very interesting!
Thank you for that entertaining review. Maybe you will find a blended malt in the future for reviewing. Cheers from Bonn
I buy probably 60% single malts, 20% rums, 15% bourbons... but that remaining 5% is still blends because they are so much cheaper where I am compared to single malts.
In my unprofessional experience of tasting, the secret of blending is to find a good balance between harmony ans singularity. Some big brandys especially (and of course big blended scotch and rums) can be too dense at time (ok, some single malts too). It give aromas less definition and the result less personnality. Sometimes to a point of being only a perfect mixer : "getting perfect to drink but bad for tasting stimulation" type result. And column (varieties of columns) made whiskys are an interesting direction even with the snobby noises in the background about it. Love ralf anyway ;)
Probably a stupid question that's just occurred to me. Assuming that single malts are produced in relatively small quantities, how do the makers of blended whiskies obtain sufficient component volumes to maintain their much higher output, while still allowing the single-malt makers enough product to sell themselves?
This needs a comparison to "Grand Old Parr" found in the export whisky market.
The best blended whiskies that I have ever tried are the masters collection Three Ships single blends. Really amazing but unfortunately limited stuff.
Its perfectly ok to criticize a whisky. It doesn't make you a snob. Just because its a popular brand doesn't mean it's good, or worth the price tag. Too many people are offended if anything unfavorable is said about their favorite pour.
Ralfy! I need a video for Glenmorangie Nectar d'Or!
Chivas Regal...meah!..JW black is my blended whisky of choice
I Wonder what the JOR in the background is ?
HAVE YOU RATED SASSENACH BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKEY?
. . . no plans !
I have to say that not having decided what Islay single malt to invest in next, I have quite enjoyed a simple Islay Mist.
The bias against blended whiskys is such that I think a proper review can only be done in a blinded fashion. If a bottle of JWB or Chivas is sitting there, the negative review is written before the whisky is even tasted.
That is a good point. Seriously though when looking for a good blend. One would nowadays have to look outside the usual suspects if you will, to find the quality and taste you’re looking for. Compass box comes to mind as good one.
Aside from that you have to use a fine toothed comb.
Maybe it would be interesting to do a review of Cadenheads blended/vatted whiskies. Yellow stripe for instance. You’re gonna get so much better quality for less money.
Ralfy, thanks for such an interesting review (as usual as a matter of fact). Could you say that Chivas 12 y.o. is the lesser of two evils as compared to 18y.o., say in terms of money or maybe between the two evils 'tis not worth choosing?
The blends I used to love are undrinkable these days. My last bottles of Chivas 12 and Johnnie Black were terrible. It's absolutely the overused casks. It's forced me to try Cognac and Port and great for me...im enjoying them. I started only buying Bourbon in single barrel versions as well. Bourbon casks are new at least but some companies do have better barrels...you can taste the difference with experience.
Hello Ralfy. I've had Ballantine 17 on my "to try" list for a while based on your previous review and reccomendation elsewhere. Do you expect that has also gone the way of things with blended whisky dropping in quality?
Ballantine 17yo is fantastic despite dropping from 46% to 43%abv a few years ago.
Hi Ralfy, I have asked this before but while on the subject of blends can you give Monkey Shoulder a try? Many Thanks.
As always, thank you for your reviews. Have you tried Shackleton yet?
. . . yes, first generation bottlings are better.
I never have gotten into blended scotch whiskey. I think it was because my perception when I got into whiskey, blended has always been perceived as inferior.
If I'm going to add an ice cube to whiskey, it's going to be a high proof bourbon or rye and not a malt whiskey.
To me, the Chivas 18 is like water that tastes like liquor. I find the Chivas XV more interesting. I wish Ralfy would make a review of that.
Your last review was more favourable of the 18 , what's changed ..you or the whiskey or both lol
. . . the whisky.
Thank you for the review Ralfy. My experience with Chivas Regal 18 year old was not very nice, I needed some Gaviscon immediately after. It was just too peppery, too spicy. But I found the 12 year old better. Just my personal opinion. Slainte!
. . . probably due to the casks !
Good review
I've seen some add ice or club soda to scotch but never coke unless it's the kind of coke you cam get arrested for.
Don't know how much this 18 Chivas retails for in other countries but here in Australia it is well over 100AUD. Was curious to watch your review and I have to say I agree. For the money being asked, it is way too hot and shallow. I would go as far as saying the 12 is more drinkable. On my whisky journey, I have found that Dewar's 18 is a full step up in quality and value compared to this.
I have the white dalek!!!!
If whisky was music, Chivas Regal 18 would be bubblegum pop and Springbank 18 prog rock.
Us whiskey connoisseurs make up an extremely small percentage of the market. Its bad business to carter to us alone. Chivas 18 is still a good whiskey thats smooth and easy. The Chivas of the late 60's mid 70's would blow your taste buds into orbit though. A true master class in whiskey during that era, It didnt become world famous for nothing.... but yes its glory days are over. its a mere shadow of its former self, but im glad the brand is still going.
Yep, most people start out with blended whisky and then they go from there becoming whiskey connoisseurs as they go on their Whisky journey. Also they are good for cocktails which alot of people do enjoy. This said i hope they get their act together and bring back the quality they used to have.
Wasn't expecting such a high mark!
Thanks Ralfy
Blends are just split barrel single malts that never reached maturation. You wouldn't have blends without single malt. Good on ya Ralfy
82 seems generous to me
Hoo bloody ray..., I have been saying that for years that the average person tastes by the label. To prove this I bought the cheapest whisky I could buy and put it in a Glenfiddich 15 year old bottle..., and people were raving how fantastic it was..., NOBODY realised it was a better quality whisky..., not a single drinker and in this lot were quite a few people who considered themselves "quality" whisky drinkers. HA HA
. . . It happen a lot, especially with red wine.
It's just not the same thing.
I drink whisky to taste the whisky.
I agree with you and your sentiment very much.
They are blending to create a product that meets expectations of scotch drinkers. If you're buying Chivas 18 you want to drink a good scotch.
When I taste a single malt, the experience I'm looking for is the UN-expected malt moment. I think we have arrived at an epiphany of sorts. I started my journey simply asking WTF is going on with all these crazy and expensive bottles. Now I know.
Whisky is whisky is whisky.
Another day, another dram and how whisky fits into and enhances my life is a personal and unique experience. Cheers
I disagree about ice in the whiskey: it's the same as adding a few drops of water because the ice is melting, releasing new compounds.
It's not the same. For many reasons. Adding a few drops of water is a controlled action. While having ice melt is not controlled. Also as ice melts it releases more and more water which will make the whisky more and more diluted. And ice will also have a chilling effect on the drink. And you get less taste from a spirit that is cold than a drink that is room temprature.
This said if you enjoy it with ice then drink it with ice. People are free to do as they please even if i personally think it makes the Whisky worse.
Ralfy whisky review 333, you gave it 84/100.
It was better back then, and palates change
My pallette is horrible, unwilling to develop, so I go back and forth between single malts and blends.
Have to agree though that consumerism ruined the quality of both, even in my very short-lived experience - less than 10 years.
David Hayman, in his BBC show, surveyed the state of the Scotch whisky industry and examineed the threats to its world dominance. He became a blend convert. Just saying.
😁👍☕ Nice Job
Ralfy has a terrible habit of calling things facts that are his strong opinions. That's not how it works, Ralf.
I've had plenty of single malts I've paid good money for that I had to choke down because I just couldn't drain pour them. Scotch isn't cheap in the States like Bourbon can be. Never disappointed with Chivas 18. Nothing hurts me more than dropping serious cash on Whiskey that is not much better than bottom shelf. There plenty of bottles in both Scotch and Bourbon that are way over hyped and over priced. I think you get what you pay for with this one.
i have tried this once and to be honest, it wasn't any better than the basic 12 yr, i do have a couple of blended whiskies in my cabinet but all are blended malts.
I am surprised you don’t swish for a few secs
I enjoy Chivas Regal 18. I trust your nose and palate. I get some but not all of what you picked out of it. I was leaning more to sultanas than dates, but I get it. I also like many single malts. Where I live, I can get many Speyside, Highland, and Islay malts. Lowlands is limited pretty much to Auchentoshan, which I enjoy. But I don’t think I ever found Campbelltown malts here. I also like a few bourbons. It depends on my mood. My comfort with blends is that they are accessible, and when bars were open, I could find a decent sipping blend practically any bar or restaurant. I drink my whisky neat.
R pls review j and b rare
82 does not seem like a negative score. What’s everyone’s interpretation of the Ralfy scale
Ralfy doesn't revieuw anything he scores under 80, so 82 is pretty low his reviews going
The Chivas Regal 18yr is a very enjoyable well balanced blended whiskey. I’ll never turn down a dram. However, it is overpriced. At it’s price point, there are a number of single malts that are superior.
Buchanan's 18 special reserve was the pour for this video thanks ralfy
Hello 👋 🥃
❤️👍🥃
Sorry ralfy but I disagree with your view on blended malts.. For example I enjoy whiskey like monkey shoulder much better than a lot of well known single malts.. It's all about your taste dosent mattered how they make it..
Good for you. Glad to hear, you're happy, where you are.
@@Beechhill yes.. Doesn't mean that I enjoy others very good singles malts 🙂
If you enjoy Monkey Shoulder, like myself, I recommend Naked Grouse. It's about the same price for a big step up in quality.
Monkey Shoulder is good because it's a Blended Malt not a Blended Scotch. No grain whisky involved. It's also bottled at higher strength. Same as Compass Box. I'm sure Ralfy is talking about Blended Scotches here, not Blended Malts.
All of us maltmates are a bit snobby ! I started with Jack Daniels and blended whiskys, but since I follow Ralfys reviews, I switched to single malts, and now I would never drink anything else ..... Thanks for the education Ralfy. 👍
chivas regal is definitely loosing quality over time especially the 12 years. my last bottle was just terrible. will never buy it again.